Steep-Sloped Roof Specific FAQ
My contractor started working on my roof in the middle of winter; at what temperature is it too cold to install asphalt shingles?
There are no specific temperature guidelines regarding when it is too cold to install asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles do become brittle in cold temperatures, where fiberglass shingles are more likely to break then organic shingles. Breakage will be minimized by storing them in warm areas and loading them on to the roof as they are needed.
Only the underlayment has been installed on my roof and it rained last night, making the underlayment wrinkle. Does this need to be replaced?
As long as the wrinkling does not effect the installation of the shingles, it can be left in place.
My contractor re-used the existing flashings on my roof after he finished installing the new shingles. Shouldn't new flashings be included in the work?
Ideally, new flashings should be installed. If the contractor didn't specify the installation of new flashings in the contract, then this is why they did not install new ones. Be sure that all items of work to be done are included in the contract before signing it.
What is the best asphalt shingle to use on my roof?
Asphalt shingle material performance depends on the quality, quantity, compatibility of asphalt fillers, reinforcements and surface granules.
There are two kinds of asphalt shingles, fiberglass and organic. Fiberglass shingles are more fire and moisture resistant than organic shingles.
Organic shingles have good wind resistance, a high tear strength, and are less likely to break in colder temperatures.
What is an architectural or dimensional shingle?
Unlike standard 3-tab, or strip shingles, which are single layered in design, architectural/dimensional shingles are multi-layered or laminated.
My contractor wants to use staples instead of nails to install my asphalt shingles. Is that okay?
The NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association) recommends galvanized steel roofing nails, or corrosion-resistant roofing nails for asphalt shingle installation. Also, be sure to verify the governing building code requirements and the recommendation of the shingle manufacturer.
My contractor suggested installing a ridge vent on my roof and I already have two single static vents. Do I need a ridge vent?
The NRCA suggests that the amount of attic ventilation be balanced between the eaves and ridge. For a balanced ventilation system to function properly, approximately one-half of the ventilation area must be at, or near, the ridge.
I want to use melting pellets to melt the snow on my roof. Will this harm the asphalt shingles?
Generally, chemical melting compounds do not reduce the overall expected service life span of asphalt shingles. Staining may occur until all the residue is washed away. Calcium or magnesium chloride pellets are less harsh and stain less then sodium chloride.
How can I clean algae and moss from my asphalt shingle roof?
Use a mild solution of chlorine bleach and water or a mild detergent gently applied with a sponge or a hand-held sprayer and rinse thoroughly. Do not use a power washer or high concentrations of bleach, and do not scrub the shingle surface. The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association also offers cleaning recommendations.
What are ice dams?
Typically, they are a build up of ice that forms near the eaves or gutters as a result of interior heat escaping into the attic and through the roofing deck. This causes snow and ice to melt, and the water runs to colder, lower areas where it can refreeze.
